Leonardo leaves PSG

Jul 17, 2013 7:53 PM EST

Share

this page

Paris Saint-Germain have announced that technical director Leonardo has left the club with immediate effect.

The Brazilian had previously announced his departure from the Ligue 1 champions after being handed a lengthy ban for allegedly pushing a referee, but had decided to stay until the end of the transfer window.

However, during the unveiling of striker Edinson Cavani at the Parc des Princes on Tuesday, it was confirmed that Leonardo had brought forward his exit date.

"Today was Leonardo's last day," club president Nasser Al-Khelaifi said.

"I thank him for his work. He was a friend and I wish him all the best for the future. The punishment was too hard for him.

"People can leave, it doesn't change the project. I'm disappointed but I respect his decision."

Leonardo, who was responsible for bringing players such as Thiago Silva and Zlatan Ibrahimovic to PSG, joined the club in 2011, and saw them win their first league title for 19 years in 2012-13.

However, the 43-year-old was due to serve a 13-month ban as of the beginning of next season for the altercation with the referee after a match against Valenciennes in May.

His punishment was extended following his unsuccessful appeal over the original suspension of nine months.